Survey: Gen Zs least happy among PH workers

INQUIRER.net stock images MANILA, Philippines — Employees who belong to Generation Z, or those born between 1997 and 2012, are the least happy and most stressed among Filipino workers, with nearly 4 in 10 saying they often “dread” going to work. In a survey conducted by online employment platform Jobstreet by SEEK, only 76 percent of Gen Z workers described themselves as somewhat or extremely happy at work, compared with 77 percent of those born from 1981 to 1996 (millennials) and 78 percent of those born between 1965 and 1980 (Generation X). Gen Z workers also reported higher levels of stress and emotional exhaustion, with 39 percent saying they often dread going to work. Article continues after this advertisement When it comes to workplace happiness, Jobstreet found that work aligned with their personal values has become one of the most important factors for Gen Z workers. READ: Purpose, not pay, drives Filipino workers’ happiness — report Of the respondents in this age group, 76 percent said they were satisfied with the meaning they find in their work, while 73 percent expressed satisfaction with their work-from-home arrangements, and 72 percent with their company’s success. “The findings suggest that younger employees increasingly value meaningful work aligned with their personal values, while also prioritizing flexibility and autonomy as they navigate the early stages of their careers,” Jobstreet said in its 2025 Workplace Happiness Index report. READ: Study: Filipinos second happiest workers in Asia-Pacific Article continues after this advertisement The reasons behind workplace happiness, however, differ across generations. Different motivators Millennials, or those aged 30 to 44, identified workplace relationships, company culture and shared values as the strongest contributors to workplace happiness. Article continues after this advertisement Among them, 78 percent said they were satisfied with the sense of purpose they find at work, while 70 percent expressed satisfaction with their teams and colleagues, and 68 percent with their company’s values. On the other hand, Generation X employees, or those between 45 and 59 years old, cited work-life balance and career progression opportunities as the biggest drivers of workplace happiness. Around 73 percent said they were satisfied with their work-life balance while 69 percent expressed positive sentiments toward career progression opportunities and their company’s success. Jobstreet said Gen X employees were also more likely than younger workers to feel fulfilled by their jobs, motivated to go beyond what was expected of them and comfortable being themselves at work. Even so, many Gen X respondents still reported stress and burnout. Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again. Your subscription has been successful. The Workplace Happiness Index: Philippines 2025 surveyed 1,000 Filipino workers aged 18 to 64 nationwide from October to November 2025. /cb